Divergent effects of zinc, protein and energy deficiencies on skeletal muscle mass, muscle fiber diameter and serum insulin-like growth factor-1 concentration in growing rats

Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is an anabolic peptide associated with skeletal muscle hypertrophy and regeneration. The concentration of IGF-1 in circulation and in tissues is strongly influenced by nutritional state, including Zn status. It is speculated that tenuous Zn status during recovery from protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) results in decreased IGF-1 concentrations, which leads to incomplete recovery of skeletal muscle mass. Since it would be difficult to explore this speculation in a single study, the hypothesis of this study is that full recovery of muscle fiber diameter following Zn, protein and energy deficiencies is dependent upon the full recovery of serum IGF-1 concentration and Zn status. The objective of the present study was twofold. Firstly, to explore the effect of Zn, protein and energy deficiencies on skeletal muscle mass and fiber diameter in relation to serum IGF-1 concentration in growing rats. Secondly, to investigate the effects of a 30 ppm Zn diet on the recovery of muscle mass, muscle fiber diameter and serum IGF-1 concentration. (Abstract shortened by UMI.

Impact of the COVID-19-induced shift to online dietetics training on PDEP competency acquisition and mental health

Purpose: A pilot study to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and shift to online learning and practicum training on dietetics students’ perceptions of Partnership for Dietetic Education and Practice (PDEP) competency acquisition and mental health. Methods: Dietetics students (n = 19) at the University of Guelph (2020–2021) were invited to complete an anonymous online survey to assess self-reported online dietetics practicum training experiences including (i) benefits and challenges, (ii) PDEP competency acquisition, and (iii) impact on mental health. Results: The benefits of online dietetics training included schedule flexibility (42.1%), reduced commute time (31.6%), and acquiring virtual counselling experience (21.1%). Reported challenges were insufficient communication with preceptors (36.8%), increased project workload (57.9%), and technology (15.8%). In online practicum placements, 52.6% of dietetics students reported adequately acquiring all PDEP competencies, with Nutrition Care identified as the most challenging to obtain (63.2%). A negative impact on mental health and increased levels of stress/anxiety were reported in 94.7% of trainees. Notably, 63.2% of students favoured continuation of online dietetics training through a hybrid or entirely online format. Conclusion: Online dietetics training has the potential to complement the traditional in-person model; however, further adaptation is required to optimize PDEP competency acquisition and students’ mental health. </jats:p